TKC Kiwi vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Matcha are two popular options to consider. The Kiwi switches are praised for their tactile feedback, offering a satisfying medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each keypress. They also deliver a crisp and immersive typing experience, thanks to their snappy sound profile. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha switches offer a different kind of tactile experience. They provide a comfortable and snappy tactility when typing, resulting in a satisfying feel with each keystroke. Furthermore, the Matcha switches produce a clean bottom-out sound due to their long pole stem design. While these general characteristics may help you in your decision-making process, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you determine the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi and the KTT Matcha both utilize different materials for their housing, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, which offers a bright sound signature and resonant clacks while typing. In contrast, the Matcha incorporates a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both materials contribute to producing resonant sounds, but the UHWMPE of the Kiwi may result in a slightly softer and more resonant sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate of the Matcha.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Kiwi employs UHWMPE, while the Matcha relies on a polycarbonate housing. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi contributes to its bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing. Similarly, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Both materials offer clear and resonant sound profiles, but the polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature may result in a slightly more pronounced and crisp sound compared to the UHWMPE of the Kiwi.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of both switches, it is important to consider their impact on the typing experience. The bottom housing predominantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. Therefore, users can expect to experience the qualities of the material used in the bottom housing when pressing a key. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. Thus, the material chosen for the top housing will have a more noticeable impact on the sound users hear when letting go of a key. Consequently, the different housing materials in the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Matcha provide unique sound profiles during both the typing and releasing actions, showcasing the versatility of materials in creating distinct auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams, slightly heavier than the Matcha's 40 grams actuation force. This means that the Kiwi requires slightly more pressure to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Kiwi is significantly heavier with a force of 67 grams, compared to the Matcha's 45 grams. This indicates that the Kiwi provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring more force to fully press down the keys. On the other hand, the Matcha offers a lighter bottom out force, which may be preferable for those who prefer a lighter touch and extended typing sessions. In terms of weight, the Kiwi can be considered the heavier option, while the Matcha is lighter. Therefore, individuals seeking a more lightweight typing experience may lean towards the Matcha, while those desiring a more substantial and pronounced keystroke may opt for the Kiwi. Overall, both switches offer distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences, ultimately providing similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of which switch they choose. Therefore, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the TKC Kiwi and the KTT Matcha tactile switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Kiwi switch offers a satisfyingly snappy sound that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch has a clacky sound profile. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and percussive. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the TKC Kiwi and KTT Matcha tactile switches have some similarities. Both switches are described as stepped, meaning they have a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This provides a mild tactile sensation without being overwhelming. Additionally, both switches are referred to as accented, which means they provide a notable amount of tactility without being scratchy. The Kiwi switch also has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined feel during typing. The Matcha switch, on the other hand, is noted for being snappy, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs that enhance responsiveness. The Matcha switch is also described as feathery, meaning it requires little exertion from the fingers and reduces finger fatigue. It's important to mention that the Kiwi switch's feel is enhanced by its factory lubing, resulting in smooth and effortless key travel.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi and KTT Matcha tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched sound profile that is neutral and satisfyingly snappy. It offers a moderately tactile experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Matcha switch produces a clacky sound and offers a stepped feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is notably snappy and feathery, requiring little exertion from the fingers. Both switches provide a medium-tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience. However, if a similar sound or feel is desired, both switches offer specific qualities that can be appealing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, you should consider your preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each keystroke and enjoy a snappy sound profile, the Kiwi switch would be a great choice for you. It also has a low-pitched and neutral sound, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha switch would be a better fit. It offers a comfortable and snappy tactility, alongside a clacky sound profile that is crisp and percussive. The Matcha switch is also described as stepped, snappy, and accented, making it responsive and providing a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing experience. Whether you prefer the medium-heavy bump of the Kiwi switch or the lighter touch and clean bottom-out sound of the Matcha switch, both options offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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